Turn off your phone

Going back to a simpler life is not a step backward. - Yvon Chouinard

We live in a day and age where you will see almost everyone on their phones...everywhere you go; walking down the street, eating out, sitting with friends, loved ones, and so on… 

Trust me, I am as guilty as the next person. 

Yes, there are so many benefits with respect to the increase in technology. We are able to access information in seconds, keep in touch with people across the globe, and have the ability to accomplish much more, at any time of day, than we have in previous decades… But the phone and access to technology can also serve as a distraction and inevitably take us out of the present moment. 

When was the last time you turned off your phone and willingly experienced what was around you? This isn't a judgment statement, but merely a question based on curiosity. 

Turning off your phone can seem scary…it disconnects you from the digital world that you are so accustomed to...but the act can be empowering. It can be a moment for YOU…a moment of self care…a pause from the technological world and a re-entering into the present. 

I often find that when I go on weekend adventures to remote locations and reach the 'No Service' areas, feelings of freedom and ease arise. I cannot be reached...I cannot check my email, social media feeds, or search the Internet…instead, I feel encouraged to step into what's immediately surrounding me…the people I am with...the natural environment...the magic of the moment, and the gifts awaiting me there. 

Turning off your phone it can feel strange...for we have become so accustomed to and rely so heavily on our technology…but I encourage you to try it. As with everything, if it feels uncomfortable, start small… Perhaps, turn off your phone at bedtime…instead of scrolling through whatever is of interest to you on your phone, take a bath, listen to music, read that book you've been meaning to get to, have a conversation with a loved one...see what unfolds with the simple act of turning off your phone. From there you can experiment further...perhaps turning off your phone during the day…or maybe an entire weekend…again, see what emerges from experimenting with this…. 

As always, these self care tools have to resonate with you...this is why I suggest such a range of tools… So if this resonates, I encourage you to try it…even if it is for five minutes…for you never know what gifts and magic await you.